While I much prefer the 7.62 x 39 to the .223 as a caliber, in the Ruger I'd go with the Mini-14 in .223. I have seen one Mini-30 that shot well, but for that caliber I prefer the AK-47 or one of its variants. The cheap Russian ammo funtions well in those. .223 ammo is available or it used to be. Don't expect hair splitting accuracy. Mini-14s typically shoot 2" to 4" groups at 100 m. A few do better. I have 3 of them, and only my heavy barrel one will shoot under 2". The action is very reliable and accuracy is good enough for a self-defense weapon.